Broken Window

As a woman, life can be really hard sometimes. From the time we are little girls, things seem stacked against us. But we learn to deal with the struggles and keep going, even when we feel like a broken window ready to shatter.

Growing Up Is Tough

When you're young, people say "boys will be boys" and let them get away with everything. But girls are told to "act like young ladies." We get scolded for things boys do all the time.

It's confusing and unfair.

For example, if a boy scrapes his knee playing, he gets a pat on the back for being tough. But if a girl ruins her dress while playing, she is told to be more careful and ladylike.

Boys are encouraged to speak up, while girls get shushed for being "too loud."

These mixed messages about how to act continue through middle and high school.

Girls have to walk an impossible line of being smart but not too smart, friendly but not too flirty, assertive but not bossy.

It's easy to feel alone and like no one understands you.

Workplace Inequality

As women grow up and enter the working world, the unfair treatment continues. Women get paid less than men, even when doing the same job. Bosses look down on young women, thinking we don't know as much.

When trying to lead, women often get labeled as "bossy" or "pushy." But for men, it's considered normal to be ambitious at work.

Sexism and discrimination make it really hard for women to get ahead in their careers.

Often women end up doing "office housework" like organizing parties or cleaning up after meetings.

Men aren't expected to do these extra tasks.

Juggling long work hours plus caring for families and homes leaves many women exhausted and overwhelmed.

Judged by Looks

For women, looks matter way too much in society. Little girls grow up thinking they have to be pretty and thin to be loved. As teens, girls face constant pressure to wear trendy clothes, shave their legs, and wear makeup.

Magazines, ads, and movies show unrealistic beauty standards. When women don't measure up, they face judgment and shame.

Cruel comments about weight, skin, hair, and clothes can crush girls' self-esteem.

Even as adult women, co-workers and strangers make remarks about looks. Getting asked "Is that outfit appropriate for work?" or "Are you feeling okay today? You look tired" adds extra stress to daily life.

Staying Strong

Despite the many struggles women face, we persist and achieve great things every single day. By building each other up and giving encouragement, women can withstand any challenge that comes our way.

It's important to find positive female mentors and role models who can inspire you to keep reaching for your dreams.

Learn from women who have overcome obstacles and broken down barriers before you.

Let their strength motivate you during difficult times.

When you experience discrimination, don't stay silent. Speak up to call out injustice, while also taking care of your own mental and physical health.

Remind yourself daily that you are talented, smart, and beautiful just as you are.

Even when society makes women feel like a broken window ready to shatter, we refuse to break.

Our voices are growing louder, our unity growing stronger.

The future looks brighter for the young women of tomorrow with every step we take today.

Each small crack we repair in that broken window leads us closer to the day when women everywhere will feel empowered, respected, and valued for everything we have to offer. By uplifting and celebrating one another, we can mend what's broken and achieve the equality we deserve.

Stay determined and keep inspiring positive change.